COLUMBUS, Ohio — An Ohio woman set on fire by her ex-boyfriend and whose injuries prompted legislation that would allow longer sentences for crimes that permanently maim or disfigure victims has died.
Franklin County Prosecutor Ron O'Brien confirmed Tuesday that Judy Malinowski,33, has died after being hospitalized for nearly two years.
Michael Slager, the man accused of dousing Malinowski with gasoline and setting it ablaze in August 2015, pleaded no contest to charges including aggravated arson and felonious assault and was convicted in 2016. He was sentenced to the maximum 11 years in prison.
Inspired by Malinowski's story, lawmakers introduced Judy's Law to create tougher prison sentences for attacks that permanently disfigure or disable.
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Doctors told Malinowski from the beginning that she would likely not survive her injuries. Guided by their faith, she and her family fought to find purpose from her terrible pain.
Malinowski was interviewed by WBNS and said, "It's destroyed my life, my family's life, my kids's life. everyone around us life. and the laws of justice are just not fair."
With the help of a speaking valve and via video, she pushed for the law that wouldn't change her situation but could help others.
Malinowski endured more than 60 surgeries and urged people in abusive relationships to get out completely, run the other way.
"I want to tell people how horrible something like this can be. And if you're in an abusive relationship, find help. And get out completely. Run the other way. Run," Malinowski said.
O'Brien said his office is working with Gahanna police and the original arson investigator to determine whether a homicide case can be pursued.
On Tuesday morning, the Senate Judiciary Committee voted to approve Judy's Law. It passed the Ohio House in May. It could come for a vote in the state Senate on Wednesday.
*CNN and the Associated Press contributed to this story.